Happy Halloween

Halloween is coming up, and some of you will likely participate in the time-honored tradition. Some of you will have your furry friend participate as well, which is a wonderful idea! We thought we would provide tips and resources to make your Halloween safe AND fun for your pets!

1. Stash away the candy!

This one seems obvious, but if your pet can reach it, they will be too curious not to try and eat it! We would recommend keeping it in a cabinet or a bowl high up on a counter. If your animal happens to eat either chocolate or a sweet treat, please contact your nearest emergency vet, or your personal vet depending on hours.

We always use this as a tip, but it is important when you are opening your door several times in the evening, or having a party outside. It also applies if you are taking your furry friend trick-or-treating. Call your microchip company and make sure they have updated information, and always keep an updated rabies tag on their collar, just in case accidents happen.

3. Costumes are not the same as thunder shirts!

What I mean is, while a thunder shirt may keep your dog relaxed, a costume might have the opposite reaction. They might try to rip it off or chew it up, and they could accidentally eat the fabric. Some animals love outfits, and if they do, that’s great! Just be aware in case your animal isn’t the biggest fan!

4. Pumpkins are not necessarily their favorite thing.

Pumpkins are not toxic to animals, so that’s a positive, but swallowing large chunks can cause a blockage that will cause stomach issues. If you’re one to light a candle inside of a pumpkin, a cat might want to play or knock it over! Overall, pumpkins are a cute decoration, but make sure no furry friends can reach them! It could lead to a health hazard or a fire hazard!

5. Be cautious when letting your animal out.

Obviously they need a potty break, but Halloween pranksters have been known to hop fences and mess with animals! Black cats are particularly at risk, so if they are relieving themselves, please keep a watchful eye on them!

6. Consider keeping them in a separate room.

With strangers coming to the door all night, they might be on edge. Add to that people in scary costumes or masks on, and you might have a stressed out animal! By keeping them in a separate room, not only will they not escape, they will feel safer in the comfort of their home, not seeing scary objects!

7. Consider getting thunder shirts or calming spray.

With the constant stress of the door opening and closing, and strangers coming in your home, your little ones might get a little stressed out. A thunder shirt or calming spray may help them cope a little better. Many stores sell them, as well as our own Wayside pet store Whiskers &Wags! You can see the hours here.

Those are our tips for a fun and SAFE Halloween. Enjoy your time, and stay safe! By following these tips, your animal won’t think anything of the timeless holiday!